There are many differences between cats and other animals. All cats, from large wild cats to small
domestic cats, share common features. Scientists claim that the cat species evolved about 40 million years
ago from an animal like weasels. In comparison, the human erectus, the first human, developed about 1.8
million years ago.
The first domesticated cats are among the early Egyptian people who lived in the Nile district of Upper
Egypt. These first domestic cats were prized for chasing and killing small rodents and snakes. These pests
were constantly damaging the grain, which was the main food source for Egyptians. Cats were an
effective way to combat these pests, so humans protected them.
As people and cats became acquainted and their fears disappeared, a stronger and closer relationship was
established between them. Egyptians were amazed by the agility of cats, their physical and hunting
abilities. Cats, on the other hand, enjoyed a safe haven and got food from humans. In addition, Egyptians
were fascinated by the cat’s ability to see when it was dark and to flexibly avoid hazards. The typical
indifference of cats also contributed to their increased status.
The high position of the cats allowed them to travel up and down the Nile River with cereal boats. Their
presence on board provided grain protection for animals such as mice, rats and other small rodents. Under
such favorable conditions, cats multiplied and spread throughout the Nile region.
The abilities and values of the cat allowed them to be raised as much as the royal members. It was soon
illegal to harm and kill cats. Egyptian people began to call cats Mau because the word resembles meow
sound. This name was later changed to Urchat. The cat goddess known as Pasht (similar to pussy and
pussy) was soon created and worshiped by the Egyptians. The modern cat names we use today come from
the ancient Egyptian names.
The Romans continued to domesticate cats, as they also valued cats for their ability to hunt. This allowed
cats to spread throughout the Roman Empire. The fall of Rome marked the beginning of a truly difficult
period for cats. Cats, especially black ones, were considered evil creatures and were associated with
witchcraft. So they were persecuted and killed.
According to historians, cats have been domesticated so quickly due to their ability to eliminate pests,
physical flexibility and extreme behaviors. Cats are usually completely independent, but they can also live
in families and groups. Although dogs need to be with humans and require human attention, cats can do
well alone. Felines are animals that do not require extreme emotional proximity or approval.
Today’s well-known pet cats have some of the characteristics of their ancient ancestors. Some people
don’t like cat behavior and they want dog pets. However, there are individuals who appreciate the cat’s
independence and behavior, and are happy to have such a pet at home. Cat and dog owners are completely
different in their individuality because they value differently based on their characteristics.
Training cats is not easy, but certainly possible. There are cat shows where you can see the amazing trick
that cats do. You can teach your kitten to follow key commands and come when called by name. Many
experts believe that cats are trained if they want to, and cat owners cannot force their pets to do anything
against their will.
Another difference between cats and other animals is their agility, balance and strength. Felines can jump
three times their height – something we can’t do. You must have heard the old saying that a cat has nine
lives. This expression stems from the cat’s ability to avoid various physical effects. So it’s no wonder that
cats are often able to withstand various disasters.
Cats are unique in their ability to see at night, physical strength, and flexibility and disability. In fact, cats
don’t pretend they don’t care. The truth is, they don’t really care. You may not like this indifferent
behavior, but cats don’t care about it either, so you better accept it.